Meaning

(transitive) To make bright or brighter in color..

Definitions by Sense

1. (transitive) To make bright or brighter in color.
2. (transitive) To make illustrious, or more distinguished; to add luster or splendor to
3. (transitive, figuratively) To make more cheerful and pleasant; to enliven
4. (intransitive) To grow bright, or more bright in color; to clear up
5. (intransitive) To become brighter or more cheerful in mood

Example Sentences

We brightened the room with a new coat of paint.

The preſent Queen is a Prince of as many and great Virtues as ever filled a Throne: How would it brighten Her Character to the preſent and after Ages, if She would exert Her utmoſt Authority to inſtill ſome Share of thoſe Virtues into Her People, which they are too degenerate to learn only from Her Example.

to brighten one’s prospects

Having Mark around the place really brightens things up.

An Ecstasie, which Mothers only feel, / Plays round my heart and brightens up my sorrow.

Chances for the measure's success brightened considerably […] with the elimination of the term "sexual orientation" […] The new term, "sexual status," has caused several former opponents of the bill […] to change their votes.

The sun starts to brighten around this time of the year.

The sky brightened as the storm moved on.

Word Forms

• brightens
• brightening
• brightened
• no-table-tags
• glossary
• brighten
• brightenest
• brightenedst
• brighteneth
• -

Synonyms for brighten

Antonyms for brighten

Related Words

When Should You Use Brighten?

Use brighten when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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